Glenda Shouse: A Godly Influence
You shall teach them to your children.
~Deuteronomy 11:19 NKJV
When I was young, my grandmother lived with us.
In our small house, my sister and I shared a bedroom with her. She was a wonderful woman with a godly influence in our lives. One of my fondest memories was hearing her prayers every night. The sound of her talking to the Lord was comforting, and I never forgot those moments.
Paul reminds Timothy of the godly influence of his grandmother and mother, “When I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother, Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5a NKJV). What a wonderful heritage for us to live out before our children and grandchildren just as my grandmother did for me and my sister.
Sometimes it is the small things that make an impression on those around us, like thanking God for our meal, reading our Bible, or praying for others. These are simple things that are God-honoring and God-glorifying that we can do as we go through our day. Our actions can be more meaningful than what we say.
Even though Grandmother was a wonderful witness to me, I still had to respond to God’s call in my life and accept the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. I finally understood Jesus had already done everything for me, and all I had to do was pray, “Lord Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for me, forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior.”
The Gospel is simple, but sometimes it takes time for the Holy Spirit to prepare our hearts to receive Jesus and for us to surrender to His wooing. Once you receive the gift of salvation, share your newfound faith with others.
Who is someone who has influenced your faith in Jesus Christ?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunities You provide for me to share my faith. Help me to honor Your Son by being prepared to do so with joy, any time You give opportunity.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Genre: Non-fiction
Copyright 2019: A Godly Influence: Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved
Published: March 2020: PresbyCan Daily Devotional: Robin Ross, Submissions Editor
Published: November 2020: Answers2Prayer Ministries: The Sermon Illustrator: Lyn Chaffart, Moderator
Published: November 2020: Christian Devotions Ministries: Martin Wiles, Managing Editor
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